
The Phoenix Suns have named Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Jordan Ott as their new head coach, sources tell ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Ott, 42, joins the Suns after a four-round search that saw over 15 candidates interviewed by Phoenix’s front office and ownership.
Ott has been an NBA assistant since 2012, working under coaches such as Mike Budenholzer with the Hawks, Kenny Atkinson with the Nets, and Darvin Ham with the Lakers.
Most recently, he served on the Cavaliers staff under Coach of the Year runner-up Atkinson, helping Cleveland secure a 64-win season and the East’s best record.
Phil Handy, now with the Cavaliers, recommended Ott as a creative strategist in both offense and defense, praising his player development skills.
Newly appointed general manager Brian Gregory led the search after replacing long-time executive James Jones on May 1.
Gregory’s process included first-round virtual interviews, second-round evaluations, and final in-person visits with five finalists.
Sources said Suns’ franchise cornerstone Devin Booker was deeply involved in the final stage, giving Ott his top endorsement.
“Booker stamped Ott as his top choice,” a league source told Charania, citing trust in Ott’s communication style and coaching philosophy.
Ott’s hiring marks the third head coach change in as many offseasons for Phoenix, following Mike Budenholzer’s dismissal in April and Frank Vogel’s departure a year earlier.
The Suns missed the playoffs for the first time since 2020, finishing 36–46 and prompting ownership to seek a fresh voice.
Ott will inherit a roster headlined by Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal—though Durant’s future in Phoenix remains uncertain amid trade speculation.